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Team

Meet the Team

Each member of the PFG Team brings their own unique strengths and skills to come together and perform at our best for you. Everything we do is a team effort; all client meetings have two advisors and the plans we create are generated from the collective expertise of the whole group. As your needs grow and evolve, PFG will be there alongside you as your complete and strategic advisor.

Have a question for us?


Ruvin Levavi, Esq. Photo Ruvin Levavi, Esq. Hover Photo
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Ruvin Levavi, Esq.

Founder | Principal Advisor

Ruvin Levavi, Esq.

Founder | Principal Advisor

As a recovering attorney, dad and founder of the Power Forward Group, my life involves wearing a lot of different hats - some that I steal from my dad. My career began as an estate planning attorney, mainly working with clients on the back-end of their careers and lives. 

I realized a large gap existed from a financial perspective on educating people how to maximize the wealth they accumulate throughout their lifetime. The creative solutions and adaptive planning strategies we implement aid our clients in achieving their version of success.

Learn more about Ruvin's journey from attorney to financial advisor.

Ruvin holds his Series 7 and 66 licenses and is a Registered Representative of HTK. 


Favorite Sport: 

Hockey

Understanding the need for a team and working together is something I apply to PFG every day. 

Queued Up On the Driving Playlist: 

Of Monsters and Men

Their albums never get old, just ask my kids!

A Book I Can’t Put Down: 

The War of Art

There is nothing better than a book you can’t put down. War of art is that book for me. 


Go-To Cocktail: 

Laphroaig Neat

Nothing like having a drink that reminds you of a summer barbeque with each sip!

Go-To Podcast: 

Dollop

As a history nut, Dollop is the perfect podcast for me. Each podcast centers on an event chosen for its humor and peculiarity. 

Favorite Holiday Destination: 

Skiing in Killington

Skiing with the family is a staple holiday in the Levavi household. Nothing beats the crisp slopes on a cold winter day. 

Jack Levavi Photo Jack Levavi Hover Photo
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Jack Levavi

Senior Counsel

Jack Levavi

Senior Counsel

Jack Levavi here. I’ve been in the financial services world for over 40 years, even though I don’t like to admit my age. My specialty is helping my clients build tax savings strategies and multi-generational wealth. I work closely with accountants, attorneys and TPAs in generating holistic plans. Over the course of my career, I have been a member of the Million Dollar Round Table many times. These days I consult the families PFG serves from my lakeside home in Upstate New York. In my free time, you can find me competing in powerlifting competitions, fly fishing and skiing.


Favorite Sport: 

Fly Fishing

Nothing like sitting by the water all day catching some fish.

Queued Up On the Driving Playlist: 

Bad Habit - Offspring

What a classic - enough said!

Best way to destress: 

Sleeping

Being well-rested is so important, and who doesn’t love a nap!


Happiest When: 

Watching Netflix

Diving into a great film or TV series is a great way to spend some evenings. It can help broaden your creative mind!

Can’t be interrupted when: 

Fishing

When I’m fishing, I’m in the zone and can’t be interrupted.

Favorite Holiday Destination: 

Skiing in Killington

Our family ski trips are one of the highlights of my year.

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Mikaela Scanlon

Managing Director

Mikaela Scanlon

Managing Director


Welcome to our website! I’m passionate about creating streamlined systems and processes to ensure the best experience for our clients (which includes the recent overhaul of this site!). Before joining PFG, I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a triple major in finance, management and marketing; you can say I like to keep myself busy. I started off in the industry as a financial advisor and registered representative and became particularly interested in building a practice leveraging the latest technology. If you have the rare chance of catching me off the clock, you can find me coaching, watching, playing… everything basketball. I’m actually more of a shooting guard myself, but here at PFG we strive to be your ‘power forward’; the complete and strategic member of your team.

Mikaela holds her Series 6 and 63 licenses and is a Registered Representative of HTK.


Favorite Sport: 

Basketball

A former captain and current coach – nothing more gratifying than seeing your team win!

Queued Up On the Driving Playlist: 

Bruce Springsteen

Windows down driving on the Garden State Parkway!

A Book I Can’t Put Down: 

No Rules Rules:

Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention by Reed Hastings and Erin Meyers


Best Brunch Spot: 

The Lola Hoboken

Did someone say bottomless Mimosas? The possibilities are endless!

Happiest When:

It’s March

College basketball and St. Patrick's Day- enough said!

Catch me in the summer: 

At The Jersey Shore

Sometimes you just need to get out in the sun! 

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Chris DeVito

Financial Advisor | LawFin

Chris DeVito

Financial Advisor | LawFin


Hey guys, it’s Chris here! As a former stockbroker, I came over to the PFG team to help my clients create holistic financial plans that aren’t centered around the hot stock of the day. 

I strongly believe that you can create wealth for yourself and future generations through proper planning and a strategic approach. 

When I’m not working with my clients to help increase their wealth and live on their terms, you can find me with a pint of Guinness watching a baseball game!

Chris holds his Series 7, 24 and 63 licenses and is a Registered Representative of HTK. 



Favorite Sport: 

Baseball

Baseball is a great sport that requires strategic thinking and teamwork, much like my role.

Can’t be interrupted when:

Watching a Cardinals game

There is no better feeling than watching your team succeed.

Best Food Spot: 

F&J The Pine in the Bronx

Their Chicken Parm with Spaghetti is second to none. Can't beat the classic dishes!


Go-To Cocktail: 

Old Fashioned

There's something strong about a simple classic. Easy but effective, just like finance can be.

Favorite Sunday Activity:

Softball and Beers

Weekends with family and friends are so important. It's a great way to relax and recharge.

Families Favorite Holiday Destination: 

Jersey Shore

Our family tradition of going to the Jersey Shore is something I look forward to every year!

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Bobby Kaslander

Financial Advisor | LawFin

Bobby Kaslander

Financial Advisor


Hey there, I’m Bobby from the Power Forward Group. At PFG, we aim to be your key player; to help ensure your financial strategy is running at peak performance. Did you catch the sports reference? A little about me, I was born and raised in Verona, New Jersey before graduating from Bucknell University with a degree in Economics, while also starting as a wide receiver for the Bison football team. Being an athlete requires patience, skill and dedication, traits that I’ve carried into my current career. Having a passion for numbers and for being around great people lead me to be a financial professional. I’m here to be your No. 1 fan, your coach and your motivator to get your finances into shape for the long haul.

The most important thing I learned in my career is the smartest move you can make is to simply start planning now, while you have the time to maximize your savings and earning potential. Together we can tackle your financial game plan and achieve your life’s goals. Let’s get started.

Bobby holds his Series 7 and 66 licenses and is a Registered Representative of HTK. 

Favorite Sporting Event: 

The Masters

They don't call it 'a tradition unlike any other' for no reason.

Favorite DJ: 

Kygo

Nothing better than the happy-summer vibes playlist.

Favorite Football Team: 

The NY Jets

The New Yok Jets- ...unfortunately. This is our year though!


Hidden Talent: 

Playing the Piano

Let's just say people won't be paying to hear me play, but it's my escape.

Favorite Sunday Activity: 

A Big Italian Sunday Dinner With The Family

I’m Italian, what can I say?

Best Vacation Spot: 

Big Sky, Montana

I'd snowboard every day if I could.

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Joe Shalom

Financial Advisor | LawFin

Joe Shalom

Financial Advisor | LawFin


Hey, Joe here from the Power Forward Group, coming to coach you on running your financial life. Our team provides a step-by-step plan to getting your money on track. Can you tell I'm a runner? I’m here to keep you accountable to your goals and organize a strategy to help you get there. Some goals are like marathons that require more long-term thinking to get there, other goals are like the 100-meter dash that are closer in sight. Each requires your training to start now. What’s stopping you?

After college, I joined my family’s business and increased their profitability and impact through streamlining their systems. I take those skills of running an organization efficiently to help my clients achieve success. My end goal has always been to have people reach that “runners’ high” through having more clarity in their financial life.

Joe holds his Series 7 and 66 licenses and is a Registered Representative of HTK. 




Favorite Sport: 

Basketball

I love watching a game of basketball, there is a lot of flexibility and teamwork involved, like my role.

Queued Up On the Driving Playlist: 

BPM (Channel 51 on SiriusXM)

Can't go wrong with some solid radio when you're driving!

Most at ease when: 

Running

Some of my best thoughts come to me when I'm running. When my mind opens up there's no stopping what I can come up with!


Go-To Cocktail: 

Moscow Mule

The spicy ginger beer and the sour lime is the perfect contrast, and of course you can't forget the vodka!

Favorite Football Team:

New York Jets

There's nothing better than watching your team succeed!

Favorite Holiday Destination: 

Florida

Sometimes all you needed is to lie on a beach and dip in and out of the ocean. Breaks are necessary every now and again!

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Michael Dayan

Financial Professional

Michael Dayan

Financial Professional

Hey there, I'm Michael. As one of the younger members of PFG, I bring energy, passion, and a fresh perspective to all of my clients. I thrive when faced with complex challenges and love crafting unique financial strategies for individuals' unique circumstances.

A little about me, I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, graduated from Baruch College with a degree in Finance, and am currently studying to become a Certified Financial Planner. I am passionate about helping people ensure the money they work hard to earn is working for them at the same time. During my time at a private bank, I saw first-hand the strategies high net worth individuals use to create and preserve generational wealth. My goal is to help my clients achieve their version of financial freedom.

Michael Dayan is a registered representative of HTK and holds his Series 7 and Series 63.

 

Favorite PASTTIME: 

Tennis

A day on the court is a good day. 

BEST PIZZA SPOT: 

Table 87

Nothing like a good coal-fired, local Brooklyn pizza spot

UNDERRATED MOVIE: 

Molly's Game

Skiing and gambling, great combo


BEST CONCERT: 

Kygo at MSG

Never have experienced the Garden like that

VACATION SPOT: 

Maldives

Clear water like you've never seen before

FAVORITE SPORTING EVENT: 

The U.S. Open

As a former ball boy, it's good to go watch as a fan

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David Chabbott

Financial Professional

David Chabbott

Financial Professional


My journey to becoming a financial advisor can be summed up in 1 word... Atypical. Graduating from Brooklyn College in 2001, after working part time in my family coffee roasting business through undergrad, I spent the subsequent 20 years starting with warehouse work and moving to sales, eventually to warehouse and office management until finally taking over the complete operations of the business as CFO. After growing the business successfully YOY, I put us in a prime position to sell at the businesses peak value.

Coming from the world of small business, I find myself acutely aware of the challenges and obstacles we face in planning our financial futures. Juggling business and family leaves little time to focus on the proper, safest ways to ensure we get to enjoy the fruits of our labor when we are ready to move on in the next stages of our lives. I get the greatest pleasure helping my clients navigate and plan, ensuring they attain "peak value" in their Golden Years.

FAVORITE MEMORY: 

Opening Day at Shea

Skipping school with dad to see the undefeated Mets? Yes, please!

GO-TO VACATION SPOT: 

Anywhere with a Beach 

(& no rain). Me, my wife, and 5 kids aren't picky as long as it's 80+ degrees!

Favorite Sunday Activity: 

Sons' Basketball Games

at their schools. They're amazing! They must have my wife's genes, lol!


DAILY MUST HAVE: 

Coffee

You can take David out of (the) coffee (business), but you can't take the coffee out of David.

DREAM RETIREMENT: 

With my Grandkids

Down the block from them in the Spring, and Facetiming them from Miami in the winter

GO-TO COCKTAIL: 

Dirty Martini

It's like a meal and drink in one!

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Charles Chomali

Financial Professional

Charles Chomali

Financial Professional 


Hey, I'm Charlie. A little bit about me: I come from Eatontown, NJ, and graduated from Yeshiva University with a degree in Finance, Marketing, and Real Estate. Currently, I'm working towards becoming a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to become even more knowledgeable for my clients. I'm deeply passionate about helping people make the most of their hard-earned money.

During my tenure at a major insurance firm, I specialized in crafting personalized financial plans for individuals. But I joined PFG to be able to offer my clients and entire suite of solutions and not just the ones offered by the company I worked for. As one of the younger members at PFG, I bring vigor, zeal, and a fresh outlook to my client interactions. I thrive on tackling intricate challenges and enjoy tailoring unique financial strategies to fit each individual's circumstances.


FAVORITE BOOK: 

Tool of Titans

Little tidbits from interviews of the world's most successful

Favorite PODCAST: 

Pardon My Take

Proud AWL, Barstool Sports x a great guest lineup

Best SUshi SPOT: 

Sugarfish

Preset menu makes ordering easy and the quality is unmatched


Best Concert Memory:

Porter Robinson Sunset

Beautiful EDM music outdoors as the sun was coming down

Best Vacation Spot:

Aruba

Perfect weather and clear water, what else can you ask for

Favorite Basketball Team: 

Brooklyn Nets

Tough few years but the future is bright!

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Nuchem Fried

Financial Matchmaker

Nuchem Fried

Financial Matchmaker


Hi there, I’m Nuchem, the Financial Matchmaker. I am passionate about helping people in my community with complex life insurance matters. It is most important to me that if something were to happen to someone I know, their family is provided for. Through an authentic heart and listening ears, I provide the highest quality of care and advice for my clients.

I joined PFG after serving as an independent advisor for many years to be able to ‘match’ my clients with a broader range of solutions to take themselves and their businesses to the next level. I believe strongly in giving back and volunteer with The Renewal Kidney organization (with whom I’ve been personally impacted), Tomchai Shabbes of Rockland County and Kosher Troops.


Favorite Sport: 

Martial Arts

This sport helps with physical, mental and spiritual development.

Best Italian Restaurant: 

Noi Due

This place in Manhattan is a must-visit. I would recommend this Italian to anyone!

A book I can’t put down: 

Think Like A Monk

This book really opens up my thoughts and gives me a moment of reset and relaxation while reading.


Go-To Cocktail: 

Cosmo

I love a cosmo, always my go-to!

Go-To Podcast: 

Anything related to Philosophy

I love thought-provoking podcasts, anything that gets my brain working!

Favorite Holiday Destination: 

National Parks or Cruise Ships

My favorite place to be is in nature, so whether that's in a park hiking or relaxing on a cruise in the ocean.

Jim Cooney, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, FSCP® Photo Jim Cooney, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, FSCP® Hover Photo
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Jim Cooney, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, FSCP®

Financial Planning Coordinator

Jim Cooney, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, FSCP®

Financial Planning Coordinator

For close to a decade, I’ve dedicated myself to becoming a student of the industry, constantly striving to learn more and more to provide the highest level of advice for the clients of PFG. I’ve achieved the designations of CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™(CFP®), Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®), Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Financial Services Certified Professional® (FSCP®) through rigorous coursework and study. My goal is to offer education and comfort to our clients, knowing that their financial and estate affairs are handled discreetly and professionally. Not only am I a rockstar when it comes to taking your financial plans to the next level, but I’m also actually a rockstar on stage as well. You can catch me playing the guitar and singing with my band at the Brooklyn Bowl! 


Favorite Hiking Spot: 

Breakneck Ridge

A great trail right along the Hudson River.

Football team: 

Giants

We’ll get back to the glory days soon.

Podcast: 

Pod Save America

I can be a bit of a politics nerd.


Happy hour: 

Walters Pub near MSG

A great, low-key neighborhood joint. 

Driving Playlist: 

Grateful Dead

I mean I am in a rock band. 

Can’t be interrupted when: 

Playing Guitar

Again, I’m in a band. 

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Jack Horowitz

Financial Professional

Jack Horowitz

Financial Professional

Hey! As a younger member of the Power Forward Group team, I bring enthusiasm and tireless energy to serve my clients utilizing the latest technology out there. My focus is on helping my clients accumulate wealth to be able to build the life of their dreams. I believe that every strong plan begins with a foundation of protection that includes life and disability insurance.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, I am passionate about giving back to my community and am involved in many local organizations. I volunteer teaching children and coaching the middle school hockey team. Financial planning isn’t just for millionaires, how do you think they get there?


Best Pizza Place: 

Spumoni Gardens

New York has the best pizza in the world.

Can’t Be Interrupted When: 

Watching the Rangers

Madison Square Garden is the Mecca.

Queued Up on the Driving Playlist: 

Red Hot Chili Peppers

“Take me to the place I love, take me all away.”


Go-To Podcast: 

Spittin’ Chicklets

Barstool sports x hockey, what can go wrong.

Favorite Golf Course: 

Polo Club, Boca Raton FL

The best summer vibes.

Favorite Football Team: 

Dallas Cowboys

America’s team!

David Kleinhandler, CLU®, ChFC®, CASL Photo David Kleinhandler, CLU®, ChFC®, CASL Hover Photo
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David Kleinhandler, CLU®, ChFC®, CASL

Legacy Planning Specialist

David Kleinhandler, CLU®, ChFC®, CASL

Legacy Planning Specialist

As a 30-year entrepreneur and investor, I understand the financial complexities of high-net-worth individuals and families. I am involved in many ventures in financial services and start-ups that afford me the opportunity to bring the best of the best to my clients. I am passionate about making a difference by helping others. I build my business through constant growth and strategic partnerships while prioritizing wellbeing, mindful action and compassionate giving.

Over the years, I have been a strong supporter of the Carmelo Anthony-sponsored Courts 4 Kids, the Martin Luther King Foundation and various programs at Syracuse University.

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Nicholas Campbell

PROPERTY & CASUALTY SPECIALIST

Nicholas Campbell

PROPERTY & CASUALTY SPECIALIST


Hey, I’m Nick and I’ve been a property and casualty agent for over 15 years. I’ve partnered with the team at Power Forward Group to bring a wide range of solutions to their clients. Together, we collaborate and search the marketplace to find the right fit for your unique situation. As an independent agent, I have relationships with many of the large players which means I work for you, not the insurance companies.


Favorite Sport: 

Football

Best sport to watch - hands down!

Best Happy Hour:

Any spot that has football on

Nothing like watching the football game with a pint in your hand with your friends!

Favorite Football team: 

Miami Dolphins

Watching your team success is such a great feeling!


Most at ease when: 

Watching Football

Are you sensing a theme yet?

Can’t be interrupted when:

Watching Football

As soon as that game starts, I’m hooked in and there’s no distracting me!

Favorite Sunday Activity:

Can you guess?

Sunday is game day! Football all around!